The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has announced plans to mobilize workers nationwide for an indefinite protest starting April 22, 2025, unless the Federal Government settles its outstanding wage arrears of five months. This comes after a 21-day ultimatum issued to the government, demanding payment of the N35,000 wage award owed to workers.
In addition to the wage issue, the FWF criticized the proposed N70,000 minimum wage, calling it inadequate given the country’s economic challenges. The union also called for a review of the wage and a cost-of-living allowance (COLA) of 50% of employees’ salaries.
A statement signed by Andrew Emelieze, National Coordinator and former TUC Chairman of Oyo State, and Itoro Obong, FWF Secretary-General, emphasized the urgency of their demands. The union will send a formal protest letter to President Bola Tinubu, with copies addressed to key government officials, including the Head of the Civil Service, the National Assembly, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
The FWF warned that if the five-month wage arrears are not paid by the deadline, they will begin mobilizing workers immediately for the protest, with all state coordinators publicly sharing their contact details for coordination. They also condemned the government’s failure to address the concerns of retired federal workers and the dysfunctional contributory pension scheme.
The workers are also calling for solidarity and a collective stand against rising insecurity, violence, and economic hardship in the country. They are urging federal workers to use social media platforms to rally support and ensure participation in the protest, reinforcing that protesting is a fundamental right.
The FWF made it clear: participation in the protest is mandatory for all federal employees, with strong consequences for those who refuse or try to sabotage the movement.
